You really like to talk about the symbolic images, don't you? Anyway, here are my answers:

1) What are your thoughts on the overall composition of the image?Like you said, I like the way they are positioned on either side of the sword as it shows that even though they do not get along well, they are united because they are both doing it to save Arwen.

2) What do you think about the lighting in this image?I really like the way most of the warm light is on Aragorn, and even though Elrond is also in the light some of his face is in the shadow. It shows the hope Aragorn is bringing, and the way the time of the Elves is fading.

3) What do you think about the music in this scene as Elrond presents Andúril to Aragorn and how it helps to symbolise the fact that the time of the elves is fading, while the time for men is coming?Truly epic music. I love the way it changes from the Rivendell theme into Gondor and it merges so beautifully that it would take a lifetime to describe it.

This was based on the words of Gilraen to Aragorn which can be found in the story of Aragorn and Arwen at the back of the ROTK. 4) Do you like how this line was used here?Yes, indeed. Very touching to include it - especially since those were the words his mother said to him years before. That must have reminded him a lot of her...

5) Any other thoughts or comments about this scene?I thought, the first time I saw this scene, the sword was going to hit the top of the tent... It was (and still is) one of my favourite Aragorn scenes.

Thanks for [another] great discussion, Silwen - you are so good at coming up with these types of questions (your CHOW discussion was also excellent). ..The Lord of Silver Fountains .....The King of Carven Stone ..The King Under the Mountain .......Shall come into his own

..And the bells will ring in gladness ......At the Mountain King's return ..But all shall fail in sadness ....And the lake will shine and burn